AAFCS Credential Practice Test

To peel tomatoes by blanching, the first step involves cutting an "X" through the skin opposite the core. This method is essential as it creates an easy starting point for the skin to separate from the flesh during the blanching process. When the tomatoes are immersed in boiling water, the cut helps the heat penetrate more effectively, which raises the temperature of the flesh and loosens the skin. As a result, when the tomatoes are subsequently placed in cold water, the skin can be removed effortlessly.

The other steps, such as soaking them in cold water or boiling them for a minute, are part of the blanching process but occur after the initial preparation of cutting the "X". Removing the skin with a knife would not be the approach used when blanching tomatoes, as the goal is to use heat to facilitate peeling rather than manual cutting. Therefore, making the initial cut is a crucial first step to ensuring the blanching process is effective for easy peeling.